Volunteer Spotlight: Brian Horsfall

At the heart of the Kaikōura Dark Sky Trust are people who give generously of their time, skills, and passion. This month, we are delighted to shine a spotlight on one of our earliest and most dedicated supporters — Brian Horsfall.

Brian has been with us since the very beginning, serving as one of the original trustees of the Trust. From day one, he has poured countless hours into helping bring the wonder of Kaikōura’s night skies to our community. His generosity hasn’t never wavered, and he has also shared his incredible equipment, with his powerful telescope travelling to schools, community gatherings, and stargazing events all across the district. Thanks to Brian, hundreds of people have been able to see the Universe up close, many for the very first time.

From students gasping at Saturn’s rings, to families huddled together under the stars, Brian has created magical moments that spark curiosity and connection with the cosmos. His dedication perfectly embodies the spirit of the Kaikōura Dark Sky Trust: sharing our skies, protecting them for future generations, and reminding us of the beauty that lies above.

Brian, we can’t thank you enough. Because of you, the stars shine a little brighter for those of us in Kaikōura. 

If you come to the next Community Stargazing Night on Friday 12th September, Fyffe House, 7–9 PM you can meet Brian, look through the telescopes and celebrate one year as a Dark Sky Sanctuary.

Our Supporters

A heartfelt thank you to all our incredible supporters—whether you’ve donated funds or provided services in kind, your generosity is truly inspiring. Thanks to you, the stars shine a little brighter. Want to be part of our journey? Become a supporter here. As a registered charitable organisation, we can provide a tax-deductible receipt.